The 28-year-old Republic of Ireland international Richard Keogh had been linked with a reunion with Steve McClaren as the summer transfer market starts to hot up.

But the Magpies have not changed their stance on bringing in players entering their peak years on the professional cricuit.

Newcastle do have several defensive targets in mind and while Schalke 04 have played down talk on Joel Matip joining United, after manager Horst Heldt slammed talk linking him with the Magpies, the Cameroon international is still on the radar as they approach the opening of the transfer window.

United boss Steve McClaren will review all of his current staff in pre-season training and current centre-back Mike Williamson was quoted on the club website today saying: “I know I can have a good, positive effect on the team. That’s what I have done since I arrived here and hopefully that’s what will happen this season, too.

“I feel like I’m growing, learning and maturing all the time and I still have a big contribution to make to Newcastle.

“It’s been an exceptional time here. I can’t speak highly enough of the fans, the Club, the good and the bad.”